Local golfer targets no.1 ranking in the world

THE STORY of a golfer with the surname “Woods” having a serious car accident and aiming to be number one in the world for golf sounds like a familiar story, but this one is real for a local Hervey Bay golfer.

Lachie Wood is living this story. Lachie is heading off to Europe with the chance of achieving the number one ranking in the world for All Abilities. The achievement is particularly special considering a life-changing car accident 16 years ago.

As a 16 year old, his dreams of a golf career were challenged when a car accident nearly claimed his life. The outcome was more than 30 surgeries, a left leg requiring 14 screws and a metal plate to hold it together but now shorter than his right leg. It still requires constant physio and likely future surgeries.

“I spent a year in a wheelchair and the next year on crutches. I was angry my dream had been taken away”, said Lachie.

He tried for many years to return to golf, but the cold winters made it hard for him to walk some days. He relocated to a warmer state and chose Hervey Bay as his new home. The big move started to pay dividends for his health.

This year he decided to return to competitive golf in the all abilities category and quickly gained wins in tournaments such as the Victorian Inclusive Championships and, recently the New Zealand All Abilities Open.

His world ranking has jumped to number six in the world, making the top ranking position within his grasp on his journey to England this month for The G4D Open, contested by up to 80 international players at Woburn. This has also been made possible by financial support from local businesses and the community.

“A win will guarantee me number one in the world”, said Mr Wood.